Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the Odisha MSME International Trade Fair 2020 at IDCO Exhibition Ground here on Wednesday.
The Trade Fair provides unique opportunities to MSME Entrepreneurs of Odisha to showcase their products and services before National and International visitors.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that Odisha has been the cradle of entrepreneurship since times immemorial.
The brands today known as Kalinga and Utkal have a glorious ancient past. The people from Odisha are known for their enterprising nature and have made name for themselves in Handicrafts, Textiles, Food Processing and Information Technology, he said.
Naveen said, “Odisha has been witnessing rapid industrial development for the last few years riding upon its rich natural resources. It also has a conducive business environment, forward looking industrial policy and infrastructure facility. The Make in Odisha Conclaves in the year 2016 and 2018 have been able to attract huge investments to the tune of Rs.5 lakh crore, and immense employment opportunities. This large industrial base shall provide ample new opportunities for MSMEs to grow”.
The Chief Minister urged the young and talented entrepreneurs to participate in the exhibition to take advantage of the upcoming opportunities in Odisha and set up new enterprises.
He said, “Our Government fully understands the importance of the MSMEs as they contribute immensely to the State GDP and create employment opportunities. In this back drop, MSME Department is organizing the 8th edition of its flagship event Odisha MSME International Trade Fair 2020”.
“I am happy to note that more than 350 MSMEs are participating in this event. I am also happy to note the participation of 20 entrepreneurs from Iran and 12 entrepreneurs from Bangladesh who have come to Odisha”, Naveen added.
The CM also expressed happiness for the special arrangements made for participation of women entrepreneurs and MSMEs from districts like Kalahandi, Nuapada, Malkangiri, Gajapati and Kandhamal.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated the business delegations from Iran and Bangladesh and presented them filigree work mementoes.